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39 pages 1 hour read

Henry James

The Aspern Papers

Henry JamesFiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1888

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Book Brief

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Henry James

The Aspern Papers

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1888
Book Details
Pages

180

Format

Novella • Fiction

Period
Setting

Venice, Italy • 1880s

Publication Year

1888

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Aspern Papers follows an unnamed American editor and fervent admirer of the deceased poet Jeffrey Aspern. He travels to Venice to obtain letters thought to be held by Juliana Bordereau, Aspern's former lover, who resides with her niece, Tita. Pretending interest in renting rooms in their house, he hopes to access the elusive Aspern Papers while navigating complex relationships and moral dilemmas.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Melancholic

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

3.8

6,297 ratings

60%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Henry James's The Aspern Papers captivates with intricate prose and a compelling exploration of obsession and deception. Critics laud its atmospheric Venice setting and complex characters but note the slow pace may deter some readers. Overall, it's a richly layered novella for those who appreciate literary depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Aspern Papers?

Readers who enjoy psychological intrigue and literary mysteries will find The Aspern Papers by Henry James captivating. Similar to F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, it appeals to those who relish complex characters and themes of obsession, secrecy, and manipulation.

3.8

6,297 ratings

60%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

180

Format

Novella • Fiction

Period
Setting

Venice, Italy • 1880s

Publication Year

1888

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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